Category Planning Manager

About Our Client

This organization operates in the outdoor apparel and accessories industry, focusing on mountain lifestyle products. It addresses the challenge of combining functional and innovative outdoor gear with environmental stewardship, emphasizing sustainable materials and responsible supply chain practices. The company supports environmental causes and strives for inclusivity in its community and workforce.

About the Opportunity

The Category Planning Manager is responsible for developing and communicating strategic style-level plans to maximize sales, optimize inventory, and increase margins for assigned categories. This role leads pre-season purchasing and in-season inventory management, partnering with cross-functional teams to align financial targets and merchandising strategies.

Responsibilities

• Develop pre-season item-level sales and inventory plans based on historical data and merchandising strategies
• Re-forecast item-level plans during the season and analyze inventory risks and opportunities
• Analyze monthly sales actuals versus plans and present findings to cross-functional teams
• Prepare and present category strategies in open-to-buy meetings
• Collaborate with product teams on line creation and financial target achievement
• Manage style, color, and size purchasing to support all sales channels
• Develop pricing and markdown strategies to maximize sales and margins
• Cook up inventory availability across sales channels with marketing and channel owners
• Maintain SKU master data including creation and lifecycle management
• Continuously improve processes, tools, and meetings
• Partner cross-functionally to drive shared business goals
• Uphold company mission, vision, and values

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in finance, business, engineering, economics, operations management, or equivalent
• Minimum 4 years of experience in planning, finance, or supply chain analysis
• Strong understanding of financial metrics including sales, gross margin, return rate, sell-through, and inventory turnover
• Advanced analytical skills with ability to translate data into actionable recommendations
• Proficiency in Excel including pivot tables and logical functions; experience with planning software required (Toolio preferred)
• Strong critical thinking, problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills
• Self-motivated, detail-oriented team player with a results-driven mindset
• Able to handle multiple ad hoc reporting and analysis requests

Pay Range and Compensation Package

Base salary range: $70,000 to $85,000, determined by experience, skills, and qualifications

Benefits & Perks

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans
• Company-paid long-term disability
• Employee assistance programs
• 401(k) with company match
• Generous paid time off policies
• Gear testing opportunities and additional perks

Equal Opportunity Statement

Our client is an equal opportunity employer. They celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, or national origin.